Currently in Wisconsin, we are seeing an influx of data center construction and development. This has brought communities together and raised important questions about the impact these projects may have on our state. The most difficult part of this process is getting accurate information from reliable sources. We are fortunate to work in an industry that is directly impacted in a positive manner, as these facilities are high-demand energy customers. In recent months at union meetings, members have been asking about the information circulating and what is true versus what is not.

Attached to this email are two flyers that outline key facts and context around this growth with a few highlights below:

• Large energy users are responsible for paying for the infrastructure needed to serve them.
• Reliability upgrades are completed before a new load is added to the system.
• Investments and rates are reviewed and approved by state regulators.
• Growth can help stabilize rates by spreading costs across more customers.
• Community growth brings jobs and increases the local tax base.

On February 23, 2026, Alliant Energy and IBEW 965 exchanged proposals to officially begin the process of bargaining a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. The Executive Board and the Negotiating Committee have copies of the proposals.

On February 24, we invited all Alliant stewards to review and discuss the details of those proposals. Each steward has received a full copy of both the Company’s and the Union’s proposals, including all exhibits. Alliant Energy and IBEW 965 begin negotiations on March 17^th or St. Patrick's Day.

We encourage all members to attend the next local union meetings and connect with your steward to discuss the details and ask any questions or share feedback about the proposals.

In addition, the union is seeking approval at the March meeting for spending on apparel and other items to show solidarity during this negotiations process. We are looking for a variety of ideas at the next meeting in order to accomplish this.

See the attached IBEW Local 965 Save the Date 2026. At this month’s union meeting, we will be discussing the opportunity to purchase tickets for members at the group rate of $15 and potential group buses. The tailgate will be paid for by the IBEW State Conference and will include food and beverages for those attending.

The union is planning a solidarity event with Everbrite members. While a date has not yet been finalized, this event will be another opportunity for members to come together and show unity. Additional details, including timing and logistics, will be shared as soon as they are available.

Soon members will be receiving text updates in addition to these email updates. There will be information about monthly meetings, negotiations progress, and other necessary news to keep the membership informed. If members want to be added or removed from the text or email list, they can contact the union hall.

Also, we are refreshing our website to be more user-friendly as we plan to store membership sensitive information on the website.

Unit 1: March 3, Gopher's Bar & Grill, Big Falls, 6:00 p.m.

Unit 2: March 5, Springbrook Resort, WI Dells, 7:00 p.m.

Unit 3: March 5, Berlin Lanes, Berlin, 6:00 p.m.

Unit 4: March 4, Sheboygan Labor Hall, 7:00 p.m.

Unit 5: March 11, Portage Rod & Gun Club, 6:00 p.m.

Unit 6: March 4, Corralejo Mexican Grill, Dodgeville, 4:30 p.m.

Unit 8: March 12, IBEW Local 890 hall, Janesville, 6:30 p.m.